Howard first Rams departure

Howard first Rams departure

Steve Howard has become the first Rams departure in the January transfer window, with the big striker surprisingly signing for Championship side Leicester City.

The 31-year-old striker has signed a three-and-half year contract at the Walkers Stadium and could be in line to make his debut at Loftus Road against QPR today, but a transfer fee hasn`t been given.

Rams boss Paul Jewell has paid tribute to Howard and he told the clubs official web site: "I've only been here a month but Steve is one of the players who has really impressed me with his attitude and ability. He is a first class pro and has been a pleasure to work with.

'However, I believe this deal is in the best interest of both the player and Derby County and he leaves with our best wishes for the future.'

Howard was the Rams Player of the Year in the 2006/07 promotion season scoring 19 times to help the Rams back to the Premiership thanked the Rams supporters and also told the Rams official web site: "Please thank the fans for their incredible support - and the memories. It's been a brilliant journey for me."

All the talk in the press has been who is coming into Pride Park and Jewell is expecting action in the January transfer window.

He said: 'I can assure supporters the search for new players is going very well and we have made positive steps on a number of our targets. I don't want to add any more on that for the time being, except to say I'm confident we will be seeing some action in the transfer market in the near future.

'At the moment my focus is on preparing the team for the Premier League fixture away to Bolton.'